Ethics and Sutainability
Our Production
Secondhand and Vintage
All our second hand and vintage stock is sourced locally throughout New Zealand. It is important to us to support local New Zealand charities and businesses because it directs income to our local communities.
Reusing Offcuts
During production waist fabric is produced which we call 'off-cuts'. Due to all our garments being cut in house we are able to collect all these off-cuts to then reuse for other garments. They make incredible one of a kind pieces made from fabric that would have otherwise gone to waste.
Made in New Zealand
All our garments are handmade in Aotearoa. We are very lucky to have two local wahine led businesses that help us sew our garments. We pay all our workers above living wage.
Made to Order
Majority of our items are made to order. This ensures we are not creating excess product that could potentially end up in landfill and contribute to our current climate crisis. All items are handmade in house and take 2-4 weeks for completion.
Our Fibres
Remnant and Dead-stock Materials
At Remnants we prioritise using remnant materials. This includes designer dead-stock, mill over runs, over orders and designer excess. When sourcing remnant materials we also prioritise supporting Aotearoa owned businesses.
Vintage Materials
Another way we source our fabric is through purchasing second hand or vintage. This makes for incredible one off pieces. So you will never catch someone wearing the same thing as you. We purchase all our second hand and vintage materials locally in Aotearoa.
Organic Fabrics:
We source all our organic fabrics from Aotearoa based business. Choosing organic fibres is important to us as it means no harmful chemicals are used during the making process. Meaning it is healthier fro us, the farmers and the planet.
Natural Fibres:
Where possible we choose natural fibres. Natural fibres are a more sustainable choice as they can be produced at the same rate of being consumed. They are less harmful to the environment compared to synthetic fibres, and also are far more breathable on our skin. Where possible we opt for dead-stock or organics. And always go for oktex dies that are less harmful for the planet.
Our Packaging
Our packing is either recyclable or biodegradable. This is very important to us as we want to make sure any materials we use can be recycled or can biodegrade. Your parcel will consist of tissue paper, and a card note which can be recycled in your general recycling bin.
We recently decided to change our mailer bags to recycled mailer bags from R3 packs. We felt that most people didn't have access to compost their compostable bags so we believe that this is a better alternative for us.
Growth within Sustainable and Ethical Practices
At Remnants we are always open to growing as a business and working more sustainably and ethically. We believe that sustainability is not a place which we reach, but more of a practice that is constantly growing and changing.
If you have any concerns or recommendations on any of our processes, you can get in touch by using the email below. We are always open to change.